Networked Sensor Arrays
A set of independent radiation sensors, coupled with real-time data telemetry, offers the opportunity to run correlation algorithms for the sensor array as well as to incorporate non-radiological data into the system. This may enhance the overall sensitivity of the sensors and provide an opportunity to project the location of a source within the array. In collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Sandia National Laboratories (SNL), we have conducted field experiments to test a prototype system. Combining the outputs of a set of distributed sensors permits the correlation that the independent sensor outputs. Combined with additional information such as traffic patterns and velocities, this can reduce random/false detections and enhance detection capability. The principle components of such a system include: (1) A set of radiation sensors. These may be of varying type and complexity, including gamma and/or neutron detectors, gross count and spectral-capable sensors, and low to high energy-resolution sensors. (2) A set of non-radiation sensors. These may include sensors such as vehicle presence and imaging sensors. (3) A communications architecture for near real-time telemetry. Depending upon existing infrastructure and bandwidth requirements, this may be a radio or hard-wire based system. (4) A central command console to pole the sensors, correlate their output, and display the data in a meaningful form to the system operator. Both sensitivity and selectivity are important considerations when evaluating the performance of a detection system. Depending on the application, the optimization of sensitivity as well as the rejection of ''nuisance'' radioactive sources may or may not be critical.
- Research Organization:
- Bechtel Nevada Corporation (US)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- US Department of Energy (US)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC08-96NV11718
- OSTI ID:
- 804081
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/NV/11718-740; TRN: US0300562
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Health Physics Aspects of Homeland Security and Emergency Response Conference, San Antonio, TX (US), 01/19/2003--01/22/2003; Other Information: PBD: 1 Oct 2002
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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